Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes: A Guide to Perfection

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a classic comfort food, perfect for holiday gatherings, dinner parties, or even a cozy weeknight meal5. This dish transforms the traditional scalloped potatoes by adding layers of cheese, creating an ooey, gooey, and irresistible experience1.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

Unlike traditional scalloped potatoes, which are often made without cheese, this recipe incorporates cheese between each layer of potatoes5. The result is a creamy, cheesy sauce that melds with the potatoes as it bakes, reminiscent of mac and cheese5.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 4 russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch slices (about 2 pounds)1
• 1 yellow onion, sliced into rings1
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter1
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour1
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt1
• 2 cups whole milk, room temperature1
• 1 ½ cups mild cheddar cheese, shredded1
• Salt and pepper to taste1

Optional Ingredients:

• Garlic cloves, minced2
• Fresh thyme leaves2
• Sharp cheddar cheese2
• Parmesan cheese2
• Bacon5

Equipment

• Medium saucepan1
• Mandoline (optional, for slicing potatoes)1
• 2-Quart baking dish1 or 9×13 inch baking dish23

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the oven and baking dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray your baking dish with nonstick cooking spray1.
2. Arrange potatoes and onions: Stagger the potato and onion slices in the prepared baking dish1.
3. Make the cheese sauce:
   • Melt butter in a medium-size saucepan over medium heat1.
   • Mix in the flour and salt, stirring constantly with a whisk for one minute1.
   • Stir in milk and cook until the mixture has thickened1.
   • Stir in cheese all at once, and continue stirring until melted and smooth, about 30-60 seconds1.
4. Layer and bake:
   • Pour the cheese sauce over the potatoes, and cover the dish with aluminum foil1.
   • Bake for 85-90 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender1.
   • For a crisp topping, change the oven setting to broil after the potatoes are baked and broil until golden brown1.
5. Cool and serve: Transfer the pan to a cooling rack, and sprinkle with the remaining teaspoon of thyme and extra Parmesan2. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve warm1.

Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

• Slice the Potatoes Thinly: Aim for approximately 1/4 inch thick slices to ensure even cooking. A mandoline can be helpful, but a knife works too5.
• Don’t Underbake: Ensure the potatoes are tender enough to almost fall apart when tested with a paring knife5.
• Cheese Selection: While cheddar is a classic choice, experiment with Gruyère or Fontina for a more pronounced flavor5.
• Make Ahead: You can bake the potatoes ahead of time, cool, refrigerate overnight, and then reheat before serving5.
• Add Garlic: Sauté minced garlic with the onion to enhance the flavor of the sauce23.
• Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh thyme leaves into the sauce for an aromatic touch2.

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses5.

• Roast chicken5
• Pot roast5
• Pork tenderloin5
• Ham

Enjoy your delicious, homemade Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes!